Bombardier Business Aircraft's fifth and final test vehicle in the Global 7000 flight test programme, which they call 'The Masterpiece', successfully completed its first flight. This sets the stage for the programme’s entry-into-service in the second half of this year.

FTV5 will validate tests completed to date, ensuring a smooth entry-into-service for the Global 7000 aircraft. The Masterpiece joins four other test vehicles in the flight test programme. Bombardier says they are demonstrating significant maturity, reliability and a smooth ride as they undergo extensive flight and ground tests.

“We are proud to have all five Global 7000 test vehicles in flight testing – it’s a testament to the determination and skill of Bombardier’s team,” said Michel Ouellette, Senior Vice President, Global 7000 and Global 8000 programme. "

He added: “It’s a very exciting time for the programme and the team as we enter into the certification phase and get closer to the aircraft’s entry-into-service in the second half of this year.”

The Global 7000 flight test programme is progressing to plan, and in recent months has completed several significant milestones, including the Global 7000 aircraft’s first international deployment.

Recent tests have successfully demonstrated the aircraft’s capability in crosswinds at high-altitude airfields and in all-weather conditions.

“With over 1,300 hours of rigorous flight testing completed, the results speak to the aircraft’s maturity, reliability and strong performance,” stated François Caza, Vice President, Product Development and Chief Engineer, Product Development Engineering. “In addition to flight testing, we continue to successfully progress our ground test programme and have now met the full airframe fatigue test milestone as required by authorities for entry-into-service. We will continue to advance the Global 7000 test programme to ensure the aircraft meets or exceeds the highest level of safety.”

Bombardier publicly debuted 'The Architect', the Global 7000 programme’s fourth flight test vehicle, in October 2017 at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Conference and Exhibition in Las Vegas.